Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. It may be some time before you see the benefit from this medication.
Do not get pregnant while taking this medication and for 1 month after stopping it. Women must have 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting this medication and one each month during treatment, even if not sexually active. Use 2 reliable forms of birth control for 1 month before, during, and for 1 month after stopping this medication. Use birth control pills that contain estrogen. Ones that contain only progestin may not work as well. If you become pregnant, miss a menstrual cycle, or stop using birth control, stop taking this medication. Call your care team. Severe birth defects may occur even if just one dose is taken. Do not breast-feed while taking this medication or for 1 month after stopping treatment.
If you or your family notice any changes in your behavior, such as new or worsening depression, thoughts of harming yourself, anxiety, other unusual or disturbing thoughts, or memory loss, call your care team right away.
This medication can cause serious eye damage. Tell your care team right away if you have changes in your eyesight.
You may experience a flare in your acne during the initial treatment period. You will need to see your doctor or care team monthly to get a new prescription and to check on your progress and for side effects.
Do not have cosmetic procedures such as waxing, dermabrasion, or laser therapy during and for at least 6 months after you stop taking this medication. These procedures can increase the risk of scarring. Check with your care team for advice about when you can have cosmetic procedures.
This medication may cause dry eyes. If you wear contact lenses, you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating eye drops may help. See your care team if the problem does not go away or is severe.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun, If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
Do not give blood while taking this medication or for 30 days after stopping it.
This medication may increase blood sugar. Ask your care team if changes in diet or medications are needed if you have diabetes.
This medication can increase cholesterol and triglyceride levels and decrease HDL (the good cholesterol) levels. Your care team may check your cholesterol. It may be necessary to change your diet or take new prescription medications to help lower cholesterol. Alcohol can increase the risk of high cholesterol. Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medication.
Your care team may tell you to stop taking this medication if you develop muscle problems. If your muscle problems do not go away after stopping this medication, contact your care team.